The Voice of North Grenville
The Voice of North Grenville Reaching by direct mail 8,900 homes and businesses in North Grenville www.ngtimes.ca
August 6 , 2026
Vol. 14 No. 30
NGAG Launches Free Create & Connect Workshop Series ing skills, the workshops are designed to inspire creativity and encourage self-expression. No experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided. Workshops are open to participants aged 14 and up, but space is limited and advance registration is required. It's also a wonderful opportunity to meet others who share an interest in the arts while enjoying a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Residents can view the full workshop schedule and register by scanning the QR code on the attached poster or by visiting: https://form.jotform. com/261867271493265. The North Grenville Arts Guild extends its sincere thanks to the North Grenville Public Library for hosting the workshops and to the North Grenville Arts and Culture Development Fund for helping make these free creative opronment. Topics include portunities possible for painting, mixed media, our community. watercolour, jewelry making, sketching, filmmaking, and an introduction to art therapy. Whether you're trying something new for the first time or looking to build on exist-
Masonry Repair & Restoration Specialists
Chimneys Brick Stone info@csbw.ca / www.Ottawa-Masonry.ca
613.882.8856
August 6, 2026
The North Grenville Arts Guild is inviting community members to explore their creativity this August through Create & Connect, a series of free hands-on workshops hosted at the North Grenville Public Library.
Made possible through the generous support of the 2026 North Grenville Arts and Culture Development Fund, the workshops offer participants the opportunity to learn new skills from local artists in a welcoming and creative envi-
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Summer Promotion
"Proudly serving our Community"
Dan Pettigrew Owner & friendly neighbour T: 613.774.1958 Dan.Pettigrew@sobeys.com foodland.ca 12015 Main Street Winchester, ON
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NGMS are not just wood-workers
by Rob Wheelhouse In the July 9, 2026 edition of the North Grenville Times, you may have noticed the North Grenville Men's Shed (NGMS) news article where I explained a little bit about our club. Of course, the article came out just before the one week in the year when we don't meet in our usual spot in the basement of Salvation Army, weekly
on Tuesday and Thursday between 8:30 and 10:30 am. [Hopefully, if any aspiring members came then, they'll try again later. Always welcome.] So, what did the NGMS do if we weren't drinking coffee at our usual spot? Well, on Tuesday July 14, we gathered at NOGO coffee (nogocoffee.com) then biked up and back the Osgoode
that, we are also MUCH more. Our members come from so many different backgrounds, and the variety of our (other than wood-working) interests is astounding. To list just a few: running, biking, model railroads, scrap-metal recycling, cars, chickens, horology (which is not what is sounds like – it's study of timekeeping and especially clocks/ watches). And, of course, golf. Our big upcoming fundraising project is a golf tournament on September 18 at Rideau Glen Golf course, with 9 holes of fun golf with lunch and prizes. It's open to all, and we have room for additional players and sponsors. And many thanks to the players and sponsors that have already signed up. The full details and registration information can be
Link Pathway. Fortunately, we finished before it got too hot, and of course we enjoyed coffee and treats at that wonderful establishment. And on Thursday, July 16, we gathered at the Polka Dot Wheelbarrow apiary (polkadotwheelbarrow. com) in North Gower. We learned a lot about beekeeping with lots of hands-on activities, and even honey tasting. Great experience for us, and we'd recommend it to anyone. Some readers may have assumed the NGMS is a bunch of old guys who know their way around tools, just grunting, belching, farting, and telling stories about what we're building or repairing. [The old campfire scene in the movie ‘Blazing Saddles' comes to mind]. And, while we do some of
found on ngmensshed.com, or via dennisgdelaney@ gmail.com. The message to aspiring NGMS members (or their wives or families who just want them out of the house), is that there is something for everyone in our club – including those who actually want to use tools, or learn how.
Rideau Glen Ladies Golf League in mid-season
Rideau Glen Ladies League . . . Singin' in the Rain by Joan Beauregard Seems like we just started the golf season, and already we're saying goodbye to July. Each week brings an enthusiastic turnout, enjoyable golf, and lots of fun and laughter. July for RGLL brought the Dickenson Tray Tournament; a competition format demanding everyone's best pitching skills to gain the most points. For the third consecutive year we had a tie; this year between last year's winner Janice Rennick and Mimi Kereliuk. The nail-biting tie-breaker was a pitch-off on the practice green, with each player having three chances to August 6, 2026
get closest to the pin. With everyone cheering on from the gallery, some tense shots were taken and Mimi prevailed, claiming First place. July also saw eight of our league members compete in the Ottawa Valley Golf Association Intersectionals at Iroquois Golf Club. Congratulations to Leslie Cheal, Susan Laewen, Brenda Lawson, Donna Lush, Cathy Maur, Suzanne Sampson, Tanya Peters, Cathy Valcour, and team captain Cheryle Canning on your great showing of 21 points. Our usual month-end fun day game was challenged by the rain gods in July. Although we held out hope
until the last minute before abandoning the game, a few intrepid members still headed out to the course. Most of us opted to arrive later for a relaxed lunch and to cheer for those who returned, half-drowned but still laughing, from their round. Recognition for Birdies this month goes to Erika Csiffary, Yvonne Lane, and Jen Meester – all achieved on the same hole. Coming up in August, in addition to our regular rounds of play, is the Depencier Tournament; a low-ball aggregate event where players with higher and lower skill levels are paired, so that everyone has a chance at bragging rights. August will also bring the qualifiers to name our team for the OVGA Seniors Intersectionals. A big Thank-you is due to all the members who take turns to contribute to the smooth operation of our league. Since May, over 60 members, alongside our board, have enthusiastically lent their support. Each game or tournament day they welcome players to the club, make sure they are
aware of their tee-off time and starting hole, let them know about any special oncourse contests, get them to sign up for the next week, make sure they get their 50-50 tickets, help with setting up for lunches, tally scorecards to determine the winners, and photograph players in action. Not sure what we would do without them!!!
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Editorial
I second that emotion by David Shanahan They say that it’s the little things that make all the difference in life. And, in these strange days, it can be the little things that cheer us up and take the focus away from the daft, crazy, and ridiculous events that seem to surround us. For example, the rise of the extreme Right, and the apparently irresistible rise of a politics based on racism, bigotry, and hate may lead us to despair. But then there comes an unlikely hero to put things in perspective. In one case, in British politics, it’s Count Binface, the parody candidate in a by-election in England who is taking on the leader of the nasty Reform Party, Nigel Farage. There’s too long a story to get into, save to say that Farage provoked the by-election to try and
escape a Parliamentary investigation into multimillion pound donations he received from very wealthy people, but failed to report as required by law. One of those “the rules don’t apply to people like me” types; but a man who flaunts his arrogance and wealth now has to face a candidate who wears a long cloak and a very nice garbage bin on his head. It’s hard to come across as a British Trump with any degree of dignity in those circumstances. Wonderful. Even in the darkest days, there are comments from people who think they are both important and influential that only show their complete unworthiness to hold any public office. I’m thinking of VP J. D. Vance saying that the Pope knows nothing about theology, or Poor Pierre claiming that Mark Carney, once head of both the Bank of Canada and the
urban mottos. Therefore, in an attempt to improve our shared image, I would suggest a member of Council introduce a Notice of Motion to deal with the issue. (Council have discovered Notices of Motion recently, so now is the time to suggest this one, I think). The text, basically, would go like this: WHEREAS the current motto of North Grenville is “Green and Growing”, and whereas this has become something of a bad joke among residents who see the Growing part threatening the Green part; and WHEREAS the motto of Kemptville, “Pause, Breathe, Unwind” seems more like advice one would give to someone having a panic attack; and WHEREAS this may be a legitimate piece of advice for residents dealing with traffic, development issues, prisons, and other municipal and urban leisure activities, it may not give the best impression to people driving by, or thinking of visiting the community. THEREFORE it is recommended that a new motto be adopted to cover both Kemptville and the entire Municipality of North Grenville (especially considering many people refer to the latter as the former). In the spirit of Springhill, Nova Scotia, it is recommended that the new motto or slogan be: “North Grenville - Wait until you see what’s coming next!”. I think that this would avoid any accusations of false advertising, to which we might be open at the
Bank of England, knows nothing about economics. Pierre was even shown on tv claiming that the recent deal to buy submarines from Germany was not real, that it was, in fact, a fake deal. Now, who does that sound like, I wonder? Ofttimes, the fun can be found in unintended places. Driving though Nova Scotia the other day, I saw the sign for Springhill, site of the awful mining disaster in 1958, when 75 miners died. Today, the municipality have a motto on their signs that certainly needs context to properly appreciate it: "Springhill— You should see us now." On the face of it, the sign seems to imply that the town used to be a pretty awful place, but “You should see us now." Apparently, many visitors and passers-by have noted the unfortunate interpretation. But it got me thinking of our own municipal and
Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, “Watching the sun rise over Kemptville College” July 16, 2026 I was touched by the way Marguerite Boyer (Maggie) reminisced about what was once the east side of the Kemptville Agricultural College. Because of the province’s neglect, nature is indeed reclaiming the paved areas and buildings that could still be saved and given to the municipality for the community’s benefit. Maggie also questions whether building another prison is the solution to current overcrowding. I agree. The proposed prison in Kemptville won’t be built for another 8 years. How does that solve overcrowding today? During COVID, the province was forced to act on overcrowding by releasing about 30% of the people in jail, innocent until proven guilty, who were being held there waiting for their day in court. This didn’t cause chaos or any surge in crime. It didn’t affect the security of communities. But it did show how overcrowding could be solved very quickly by a government that wants to solve it. The Ford government doesn’t need new prisons; it wants August 6, 2026
them. Maggie was bang on about investing far more in mental health care, addiction treatment, affordable housing, and community supports that address the cause of crimes. Her Op-Ed noted that, whether you oppose or support the prison project, it will affect our community for generations to come, and there should therefore be more public discussion and participation by the people who live here. I very much agree. Perhaps the North Grenville Times or the municipality could host a public information and discussion session? As Maggie asked: will we have taken the time to decide together what kind of community we want in North Grenville? Victor Lachance Dear Editor (and team), Thank you very much for the hard work which editing and printing the NG Times certainly is. I appreciate the information about our community, I appreciate articles and comments from many readers. I find the Times very important and missed it when the postal workers were on strike. I appreciate also informative articles by Diana Gifford-Jones. I’ve been reading these medical articles for the past 18 years (since
we moved here) and always looked for wise words from the late Dr. Gifford. I’m glad that his daughter continues in this valuable work. Can you please include in one of the next Times very serious issues, such as the proposal for a pit by Tomlinson. They want to ruin farm land at O’Neill Road. They want to ruin people’s lives around County Road 20. Sincerely, Zdena Bukal Dear Editor, This coming Saturday, I will turn 76 years old. I am certainly not hesitant to say my age because I believe each day a person has on this earth, whether good or not, is a gift referred to as "the present". In the past, a person might say to another person, "have a good day" or "have a great day". As we all know elderly people seem to be obsessed with making sure their bowel movements are regular. So, when a young person says to me "have a good one", which seems to be the term usually spoken these days, the first thing I think of is, you got it, my bowels. Then I start to laugh. Your Sense of Humour should be the last thing you lose before you die. Have A Good One; Josephine Herman
moment. The main point is that we need to keep a sense of perspective at times. Things may seem dark and dangerous, and, indeed, that may well be the case. But, at the same time, there’s much to laugh about, much to laugh at, also. Some forces, political or social, may appear overwhelming. Some individuals may, and often are, in positions of power that they do not deserve and from which they can, and do, create havoc and destruction for many innocents. C’est la vie, and c’est it has always been. But what can brighten the days and comfort the nights is that ability to laugh at such individuals and forces whenever and wherever possible. Yes, Trump has a dreadful effect on the world at large; but, at the same time, he is almost impossibly ridiculous. He has shown how sensitive he is to ridicule and laughter, and so we must indulge that side of things, whether it’s him, or Poilievere, or the middle manager who lords it over the others at work. Call out the nonsense. Ridicule the pompous. Laugh at the seriously stupid and over-the-top comments and claims of those who can’t laugh at themselves. The politicians who take themselves so seriously and then display quite amazing ignorance or basic stupidity, all deserve to be seen for what they are. As one song says: “it’s too much to expect, but it’s not too much to ask”. I second that emotion.
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Come, let us reason together 1:
A Response From An (Almost Entirely) Vegetarian Reader
by Darrell Nunn D a v i d S h a n a h a n ’s “Meat-eating Vegetarians” article got this forty-year ‘almost vegetarian’ to write this article. Why? The article relies on either/ or reasoning throughout: no shades of grey, no allowance for complexity or nuance. I suppose that degree of certainty can be very comforting. Personally, I cannot agree with such a simplified view of life. That’s why I bracketed “almost entirely.” Life is complex, not either/or simple. Let’s look at three lines of argument that he presents. First there is the starting problematic metaphor of ‘meat-eating vegetarians’. Next, there is his assumption about the nature of words, language, and grammar. Finally, there is the particular way he relies
upon the New Testament. Vegetable-eating meat eaters, meat-eating vegetarians: Apparently a vegetableeating meat eater is not compromised the way that a meat-eating vegetarian is! (I’ll get to vocabulary next.) No sense of mostly, almost entirely, percentages in the diet: it’s got to be one or the other. You’ve got to be a purist. “But all have sinned, and fallen short of the Glory of God.”(Romans 3:23) or “Pick a side and accept the consequences.” (Shanahan) And, no, I’m not even going to get into the ethical, ecological value of vegetarianism. That’s a whole other topic. And, yes, you could say that I am selectively picking my quotations. But the article does that! Words, Meaning, Grammar: The article relies heavily
Simply words?
by David Shanahan It is always a good sign when people can discuss and debate together in a rational and civil manner. All too rare these days. Darrell Nunn’s response to my article last week deserves some consideration, even if I think he has somewhat missed the point of what I was saying. Briefly, I suggested that a meat-eating vegetarian was as contradictory a statement as someone claiming to be a Christian, while rejecting what Jesus actually taught on certain topics. Darrell’s idea that “meat-eating vegetarian” was somehow as pointless as “vegetableeating meat-eater” is off the mark. By definition, a vegetarian is, according to any dictionary, “a person who does not eat meat”, hence the contradiction. However, a meateater who eats vegetables is a totally different thing. There is nothing to deny vegetables to a meateater: no definition denies that. In that regard, the purist is right: vegetarians don’t eat meat. Simple. The question of using words properly comes out of that. Darrell confuses words with grammar. He says that “Writing with so-called ‘correct' grammar doesn't make something true”, to which I can August 6, 2026
only concur. What I was referring to was the need to use words carefully, with their true meaning and content. In fact, the quote from Noam Chomsky supports my point completely. If words are to communicate clearly, which is their purpose after all, they must be used in keeping with their content. Hence, for example, a “vegetarian” means “a person who does not eat meat”. Using the term “Christian” when one denies what Christianity means is, dare I say, simply wrong. So, who defines the word correctly? I say Jesus, Darrell suggests that Paul was responsible for defining what a Christian is or means. But Paul only elaborated on what Jesus had already taught, he did not introduce any new teachings, only explored the implications and meaning of Jesus revealed. As for who talked more about Hell: Jesus or Paul, it should be noted that the word doesn’t appear in Paul’s writings; but Jesus talked about it a great deal. For example (and I only use the books Darrell felt were being ignored), in Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus condemned the religious hypocrites who misrepresented God: You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you
on prescriptive definitions and prescriptive grammar prescriptive, not descriptive. A linguistic once wrote, “A dictionary is an historian, not a lawgiver.” Definitely an arguable point, but neither descriptive or prescriptive rules state unarguable truth. Look at the cumulative effect of the words that I have BOLDED in the following quotation, the way they try to force an all-or-nothing view: The FACT is, that we can’t SIMPLY go around defining terms ANY way we want, JUST to suit ourselves. To do that is to rob language of ALL its meaning…. You cannot have it both ways if words are to retain ANY significance. (Is this ‘simply’ ‘a fact’?) And now, some statements about language and grammar: “But that’s the problem
with truth or even good grammar. A word either means something or nothing.” Apart from the either/ or of ‘something or nothing,’ words and grammar are unrelated. Writing with so-called ‘correct’ grammar doesn’t make something true. (Noam Chomsky gives us this challenging sentence: “Colourless green ideas sleep furiously.” Perfectly correct grammatically, but what, if anything, does it mean?) Use of the New Testament: “Jesus gets to define what a Christian is….” Well, actually, Paul in the Epistles probably talks about it more. That’s why many theologians talk about ‘Pauline Christianity,’ inasmuch as he was the first interpreter and elaborator of the meaning of being Christian. “But no one in the New
Testament talks about the reality of Hell and judgement more than Jesus.” Once again, I’d argue that that was Paul in the Epistles. But, given the intent of New Testament writings, it wouldn’t make sense to focus on anyone else’s statements! Interesting that the only NT quotations given are from John and Revelations, the latest of the New Testament writings. No Matthew, Mark, Luke, Acts, or Epistles - all far earlier writings, from decades closer to the time of Jesus. There have been diverse attitudes toward Revelation in the history of the church. No other book in the Bible has aroused such love and such hatred. It has served as a paradise for fanatics who give their own peculiar interpretation to the symbols of the text. Yet it has also been rejected by many Christians
as either confusing or unintelligible. So, apparently Christians can differ among themselves. Does that make some of them not-Christians? Why else would the end result of the Protestant Reformation produce more than a hundred different sects? Is only one “true”? Strangely, the article ends with “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!” (Revelation 3:15) Why ‘strangely’? Because after all the earlier reliance on either/or-ness of vocabulary, he finds a quotation that seems to imply that Jesus wanted very clear either/orness too. “I wish you were one or the other”?? Jesus doesn’t like it that humans can be a mix?? He’d rather they were ENTIRELY evil than only somewhat?!
escape being condemned to hell.” [Matt. 23.33]. Or, in his parable about the sheep and the goats, referring to the last judgment, he again condemned those who claimed to believe in him but ignored what he taught: “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life”. [Matt. 25.46] In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus warned people not to disparage him or his teaching, emphasising where real authority lay: “But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.” [Luke 12.5] I could also cite Matthew 5.22-30, 10.28, and Mark 9.43-47 among many other places where Jesus spoke of the reality of hell. People use Paul as a whipping boy when they want to criticise Christianity without attacking Jesus himself. It is part of that attempt to only accept what people want from the Gospel and ignoring whatever doesn’t suit them or their idea of what God is, or should be. That is the kind of selective approach that leads to a compromised version of Christianity. Which is precisely what
Jesus was talking about in the quote I used from Revelation: "I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!" (Revelation 3:15) Darrell seems to think that this is Jesus wanting people to be either good or evil! “He'd rather they were ENTIRELY evil than only somewhat?!” But it needs to be noted for those who don’t know the New Testament that here Jesus is talking to Christians, the church at Laodicea, not to nonChristians. And he is not asking them to choose between being good and being evil: he is challenging them not to compromise, not to tread a safe middle ground where no-one will criticise them for their beliefs. And, once again, he is demanding a simple choice, one thing or another. And, once again, he doesn’t mince words. Look at the full quote: “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I am about to spit you out of my mouth”. In a quick note: the many denominations of Christians is not a sign that they believe different things. All agree on the core beliefs: the Deity of
Jesus, the Resurrection, etc.; but they prefer various ways of expressing those beliefs in liturgy, or structures, or forms of leadership and gatherings. All agree that those who deny the core beliefs are not, and cannot be called Christian. No-one thinks they can make up the rules of a hockey or soccer game just because they don’t like the existing ones. In the same way, those who say: “I don’t believe in a god who....”, when that is precisely the one the Bible reveals, are being intellectually dishonest. Life can be pretty simple, no either/or. In some
things, black is black and white is white; words mean something specific, and not something else. Life is complicated, of course, but there are absolutes. The key is recognising them when you see them.
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www.northgrenville.ca What’s going on? See our events calendar: www.northgrenville.ca/events Stay informed! Council Meetings: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings Need to see us? Municipal office hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 285 County Road 44, Kemptville Need to reach us? Contact us: Call 613-258-9569 or email: general@northgrenville.on.ca Need additional information? Visit us:
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The Voice of North Grenville
Man-made climate change creates dangerous fire storms
by William J. Langenberg, MSc Env. Bio.) Retired lecturer, KCAT, Ag. Climatology Researchers around the world are scrambling to determine the cause of all the dangerous wild fires. Ontario is also scrambling to contain wild fires up north. The intense heat dome that existed over the American Mid-West over the past few weeks slowly moved
eastward, powered by the Jet Stream, across the Great Lakes. This same heat dome moved over Manitoba, Northern Ontario and Quebec. When hot air masses move across the Great Lakes they pick up lots of moisture which rises into the atmosphere and create severe thunderstorms. These thunderstorms in turn produce lightning strikes on the extreme
the weather around the fire. This can cause very strong wind gusts, allowing the fire to spread faster and more unpredictably. So-called downbursts can also occur: powerful downbursts that unexpectedly steer the fire in a different direction. Additionally, lightning from the cloud can cause new fires when it strikes dry vegetation. Hot ash particles can also be carried over long distances, allowing the fire to spread further. Any preventive action is important in today's climate. Do not idle vehicles. Do not park on the shoulder of a county road or highway, as hot tail pipes can ignite fires in the dry tall grass, and don't throw cigarette buds out of vehicles. We are the cause of climate change. The more agricultural land we clobber up for development, the hotter the climate will be, as we need more infrastructure for hot roadways and hot parking lots.
dry forests and vegetation creating wild fires as a result. This is just only the beginning of the massive wild fires. The forest fires create lots of smoke, which also rises into the atmosphere by convection. The rising hot smoke particles in the atmosphere act as freezing nuclei and consequently create severe fire thunderstorms and lightning. These now called "pyrothunderclouds" are examined by meteorologists today and are now labelled as extremely dangerous fire-producing Pyroculuminonimbus clouds. Many pilots record these massive fire-clouds from their airplanes. Why are these pyromaniac clouds so dangerous? The powerful updrafts in a pyrocumulonimbus can completely change
OPP warning the public about bank investigator frauds
The popular Fiddlehead Trail at Baxter Conservation Area is now fully open and accessible following the completion of the final phase of its Nature for All accessible trail and boardwalk project. Initiated in 2019, this long-term phased project has transformed access throughout the site, improving connections to key natural features, replacing the marshland bridge and supporting safe, independent use for a wide range of visitors. The completed trail network reflects years of planning, collaboration, and commitment to accessibility. This project wouldn’t have been possible without the Nature for All Committee and the generous support of: 1st Greely Cubs (2021) City of Ottawa Community Building Grant FedEx Fjällräven Ottawa Girl Gone Good The Gosling Foundation Government of Canada – FedDev Canada Community Revitalization Fund Government of Ontario EASE Grant Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation And generous private donors. For more information, contact Dan Cooper at dan. cooper@rvca.ca.
KSP Presents the Vaudevillian
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is advising the public about Bank Investigator fraud, in which criminals impersonate financial institutions, law enforcement agencies, credit reporting bureaus, and online retailers in an effort to gain access to victims' bank accounts and steal their money. Victims may receive unsolicited telephone calls from individuals claiming to represent a financial institution. The caller advises that suspicious activity has been detected on the victim's account following recent purchases at local businesses and claims that an urgent investigation is underway. In a recent variation of this fraud, victims are directed to attend their financial institution and withdraw funds. They are then instructed to purchase gift cards from local retailers while remaining on the phone with the caller, who continues to impersonate a bank employee. Once the gift cards have been purchased, victims are persuaded to provide the gift card numbers and redemption codes, allowing the fraudsters to immediately access and drain the funds. In some instances, victims are directed to deposit money into cryptocurrency ATMs and transfer funds directly to the fraudsters. In 2025, Canadians reported losses exceeding $28 million to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) as a result of Bank Investigator Fraud. Protect Yourself The OPP reminds residents to take the following precautions: Do not trust caller ID. Fraudsters can spoof phone numbers to make calls appear legitimate. If someone claims to be from your financial institution, hang up and contact your bank directly using the telephone number on the back of your bank card or through the institution's official website. Credit reporting agencies do not make unsolicited calls regarding account security concerns. Banks, government agencies, and police will never threaten arrest or demand immediate action over the telephone. Never provide remote access to your computer, tablet, or mobile device to an unsolicited caller. Police and financial institutions will never send someone to your home to collect bank cards, cash, gift cards, or other valuables. Never purchase gift cards or send cryptocurrency as part of a financial institution or law enforcement investigation. If you believe you have been the victim of fraud or cybercrime, report it to the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) through its online reporting system or by calling 1-888-495-8501.
August 6, 2026
Baxter trail fully accessible after 7 years of work
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by Lisa Poushinsky It’s dirty 30’s hokum ragtime time! The KSP is pleased to present the Vaudevillian, an awardwinning jugband blues duo hailing straight from the prohibition period (via Saugeen Shores, Ontario). With sassy Norah Spades on percussion (washboard and musical spoons), and gentleman Jitterbug James on resonator guitar, harmonica, and banjo, these two get audiences dancing up a storm! The Vaudevillian play festivals and theatres across Canada and Europe non-stop and have toured with heavy hitters Old Crow Medicine Show and Modest Mouse. They’re “…a sassy time warp into a rollicking hokum juke joint! ” (Washboard Hank). Don’t miss these cheeky seasoned pros this Saturday. With the Vaudevillian in town, a good time at the Street Piano is guaranteed!
What? The Kemptville Street Piano Concert Series presents Who? The Vaudevillian When? Saturday August 8, 1pm, rain or shine Where? North Grenville Public Library terrace How much? Free!
Want to support the music? The Kemptville Street Piano is a nonprofit concert series that relies on grants, and we will gladly accept donations and discuss sponsorship opportunities (contact us at kemptville.street. piano@gmail.com).
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Who knows where the Times goes
Celebrate Summer, Celebrate Community by Geraldine Taylor August is one of my favourite months in North Grenville. Our gardens are in full bloom, farmers' fields are bursting with fresh produce, and our towns and villages come alive with music, festivals, fairs, and community gatherings. One of my favourite Sunday traditions is visiting the North Grenville Farmers' Market. Beyond the wonderful local fruits, vegetables, baking, flowers, and handcrafted products, it is a place where neighbours meet, conversations begin, and new friendships are made. It reminds us that buying local is about much more than shopping: it's about supporting the people who make our community unique. If you enjoy music, be sure to stop by the Kemptville Street Piano Concert Series, where local musicians bring the library terrace to life each Saturday afternoon. And on Thursday evenings, catch Serenade, a free weekly musical concert in Rotary Park. If you're looking for a quieter day, take a walk through Ferguson Forest, wander the historic streets of Old Town Kemptville, or discover one of the many farm-gate markets throughout our area. August also brings some wonderful regional events. The Merrickville Agricultural Fair continues a tradition that has brought families together for generations. Music lovers can enjoy the South Grenville Bluegrass Festival in Spencerville, while theatre enthusiasts can experience the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival in Prescott. Later in the month, the Merrickville Antique Show and Brockville Ribfest offer even more reasons to explore Eastern Ontario. These events are more than entertainment. They celebrate our heritage, support local businesses and artists, strengthen our rural economy, and remind us why we are so fortunate to call this region home. As summer begins its gentle transition toward autumn, I encourage you to take time to discover something new in your own backyard. Attend a festival, visit a museum, explore a walking trail, or simply spend an afternoon supporting a local business. The memories we create today become the stories our community will cherish tomorrow. Have a wonderful August, and I hope to see you out enjoying our remarkable community.
Diana Scanlan shared the Times with new & old friends while Heli Hiking with Gold Rush Heli Skiing at Atlin BC the week of July 26
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Just because you’re away from the Council table, it doesn’t mean you can’t keep up with the news from North Grenville. John Barclay enjoys the Times near Cedar Island (1000 Islands) as he sails the St. Lawrence.
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Betty and Guy Poirier of Oxford Mills, recently returned from a trip down East, enjoyed reading the Times on the Îles-de-la-Madeleine. August 6, 2026
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NG Historical Society present graduates with awards
Andi Trodden from NGDHS was presented with the Dr. Bill Adams Award by Bill Adams himself, and Karen Nickelson.
60th Anniversary Announcement
March 9, 1949 to July 24, 2026 (Kemptville, Ontario) in his 78th year.
Roy and Cheryl (nee Shipman) Brown began their journey together as childhood sweethearts and will celebrate their 60th Wedding Anniversary on August 20, 2026. Your love story is a rare and beautiful blessing that inspires all who know you. Wishing you both a wonderful Diamond Anniversary filled with love, joy and treasured memories. Happy Anniversary with love and best wishes from your family and friends.
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The Food Corner by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville My daughter, and Salamanders genius, Liane was recently in Europe and met an old friend from her high school days. They just picked up where they left off and enjoyed each other's company. Liane had to bring a bottle of maple syrup and Anne, her friend, asked for a pancake recipe, à la Canadian. Since I'm a huge fan of natural and unflavoured yoghurt, today's recipe is Yoghurt Pancakes, simple to make and delicious to have with – you guessed it – maple syrup.
Yoghurt Pancakes
NGHS members Ken Mews and Karen Nickelson with Adriana Pilon from St. Mike’s who received the Dr. David Shanahan Award. At the graduation ceremonies at local High Schools, the North Grenville Historical Society presented awards to students who succeeded in the study of History. Congratulations to all the successful recipients.
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Yvon,Léandre Haman
Ingredients: 3 large eggs, with yolk and white separated 1 ½ cup of all-purpose flour ¼ cup of white granulated sugar ¼ cup of melted butter 2 cups of natural yoghurt Preparation : In a smallish bowl, beat egg whites at high speed till they form peaks In a larger bowl, mix the egg yolks and all the other ingredients Next, fold in the stiff egg whites to the batter with a spatula without mixing too much Heat your pan, griddle or other cooking device to 350F Melt some butter to grease the pan Drop whatever amount of batter you wish to make different sizes of pancakes Cook on one side, then flip, looking for light brown on both sides Serve these scrumptious pancakes hot with the topping of your choice, either savory or sweet. My grandson Ayden does both by covering his pancakes with cottage cheese before applying maple syrup. Best wishes from The Food Corner. Kindly don't hesitate to keep in touch at pcormier@ranaprocess. com. 8
As was his wish, he died at home peacefully, in the loving care of his daughters Suzy and Kristie, and surrounded by his two grandchildren, Hailey and Spencer, and his son-in-law, Sean Smith. Beloved husband of the late Claire Gourgon for 45 years. Son of the late Angélina and Fernand (Frank) Haman (Ottawa). Dear Brother of Gabrielle Dalcourt/ Gaëtan (Ottawa/Orleans); André Haman/ Joan (Toronto); Fernande Haman (Chesterville); and Noel Hamann (Moncton, N.B.), as well as the late Sr. Denise Hamann FDLS (Ottawa); and the late Gilles Hamann (London, Ontario). He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, and his sister-in-law, Paulette Jacques. Yvon was born and grew up in Wawa, Ontario where his parents were long time residents. At the age of 15 he relocated to Ottawa with his family, and graduated from Algonquin College in 1971. It was during his early years in Ottawa, that he met and married the love of his life, Claire, who was a nurse at the Childrens’ Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO). After a brief career in the retail industry Yvon transitioned to his true passion working with his hands, spending the majority of his career working in the construction industry. An enthusiastic outdoorsman, Yvon loved his weekends at the cottage near to his beloved father-in-law and close friend Donat Gourgon, as well as boating on Lac Ste. Marie and the St. Lawrence river along side dear friends Steve and Francisca. A special thanks to the Rideau Palliative Group for the wonderful support provided to Yvon and family. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Yvon’s Life Gathering at the Kemptville Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 805 Prescott Street, Kemptville, on Wednesday August 12 from 12 noon to 2 pm. Donations may be sent to the Kemptville District Hospital Foundation Condolences/Tributes/Donations Hulse, Playfair & McGarry www.hpmcgarry.ca 613-258-2435
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Trade tensions show why agriculture needs a strong national voice by Paul Maurice, Executive Member, OFA With renewed tariff threats from the United States making headlines again, Canadians are getting another reminder that our economy doesn't operate in a vacuum. That’s especially true for a sector as exportdependent as agriculture, where the decisions made in Washington, Ottawa, and provincial capitals can have just as much impact on a farm business as the weather. That's why the recent federal-provincial-territorial agriculture ministers' meetings in Nova Scotia, along with the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) summer meeting, were important. They brought together farm leaders, government ministers and officials from across the country to discuss the issues that will shape Canadian agriculture for years to come. I attended the event as a farmer and Executive Member of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture. My biggest takeaway wasn't any single announcement; rather it was the sense that agriculture is finally moving higher on government priority lists. The recent federal government announcement of the development of a national food security strategy is one of the signs of that shift. As farmers, we’ve long known how important our sector is to the rest of the national economy. To put it simply, everyone has to eat and we’re in the business of producing food, along with fuel, fibre and flowers, but we don’t usually command the attention that other sectors like automotive, mining or energy do. The connection seems obvious: there is no national security without food se-
curity. A country that can't reliably produce its own food is vulnerable to global conflicts, trade disputes, supply chain disruptions and extreme weather. Canada has the land, the resources and the expertise to feed its own population and customers around the world, but that capacity can't be taken for granted. It was also encouraging to see the growing influence of senators with agricultural backgrounds. Their practical understanding of farming is helping keep agriculture front and centre in national policy discussions, whether the topic is food production, soil health or the long-term competitiveness of Canadian agriculture. Of course, greater recognition doesn't eliminate the challenges we face. Labour shortages remain one of the biggest concerns across the country. Whether it's seasonal workers, skilled trades or year-round employees, farms and agri-food businesses continue to struggle to find the people they need. Without a reliable workforce, it becomes harder to grow food, invest in new opportunities and keep rural economies strong. Protecting farmland is another issue that is facing provinces nation-wide. Productive agricultural land continues to disappear to development, and once it's gone, it rarely comes back into production. Land use planning isn't just a local issue anymore, it's a national one. The same is true for farm business transition. Young farmers continue to face significant barriers to entering the industry or taking over family farms. High land prices, lack of access to capital and rising business costs
Adapting to Aging by Nancy MacLean Seventy is in the rear view and seventy-five is looming closer each day, but I continue to be active. Overall, my body has served me well. Until recently, I have been able to do what I wanted and eat what I wanted. I can thank my genetics for part of this, but that same gene pool has also contributed to my fight with cholesterol since middle age. I initially blamed my statin medication for the recent tendon tears and muscle pulls that I’ve been plagued with. But further research revealed to me that past the age of sixty, our connective tissue stiffens and when injured can no longer heal properly. Yes, the former can contribute, but the latter is the real culprit. I remain very addicted to the lovely endorphins that accompany aggressive exercise, like running in the forest and playing hockey. Until recently, I continued to ignore the aches and pains until they began to rear their ugly heads, like when trying to sleep. Sleep is important for both mental and physical well-being. Its disruption and the injuries I have sustained have prompted me to do what I’ve been reluctant to do for the past fifteen years: ADAPT. Ooh, I do not like change at the best of
make transition increasingly difficult. If governments are serious about strengthening Canada's food security, helping the next generation get established has to be part of the solution. And of course, trade. While recent tariff threats remind us how important the United States remains as Canada's largest agricultural trading partner, they also reinforce the need to continue diversifying our export markets. Expanding opportunities around the world makes Canadian agriculture more resilient when one market becomes uncertain. At the same time, Canada needs to invest at home. More domestic food processing capacity, stronger and more modern transportation networks and better rural infrastructure all help farmers get products to market more efficiently while creating economic opportunities here in Canada. None of these issues can be solved by one province acting alone. That's why organizations like the Canadian Federation of Agriculture are so important. They bring together voices from every region of the country so governments hear not just one provincial perspective, but a national one. I left Nova Scotia optimistic. Not because our work is finished, but because it feels like governments are beginning to understand what farmers have known all along: agriculture isn't just another sector of the economy. It's fundamental to Canada's economy, its resilience and its future.
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especially previously injured parts. Gently, slowly, sustained stretches to the point I feel it, but not beyond. I need to strengthen as well. In the past, doing weights often resulted in tendonitis. My recent research has shown isometric loading more beneficial to injured tendons. I’ve made myself up a program to do that. For those new to this, I suggest you consult a physiotherapist for proper posture and technique. I plan to keep moving: forest walking and running and playing hockey. For the latter, and this will prove the hardest for me, I have to stop worrying about what others think. Instead of pushing myself too hard, I will concentrate on better positioning and just be grateful I am participating. I will try not to give myself a hard time if I can’t contribute like I used to. I am so lucky to live in an area where there is female hockey available for all levels of play, with the focus on fun. To my fellow seniors: keep moving and have fun, but it is important to consult your health care provider before trying anything new, be it diet or movement. Now, if only I can follow my own advice.
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times, but when my three joys (other than family, of course ) are affected (exercise, eat, and sleep). I have no other choice than to ADAPT. I’ve limited my alcohol consumption to only special occasions, at which time I limit it two drinks (I’m a lightweight). I have cut out starches and sugar and just consume protein, fruits and vegetables. (insert tears here as I love desserts). I have found the physical activity adaptation has been the hardest. Activity to me had always meant going hard. I would give it my all, even if it meant trying to get the puck from someone thirty-plus years younger. My biggest fear was looking my age on and off the ice. I continued to want to impress those who knew me. As a result, I ended up abusing the body that has helped me remain an energetic, mostly pleasant, and relatively sane person. Well, if I want to keep active, I have to change that. I also have to stop trying to both impress or compare myself to others, young and old alike. On the ice, this will be the hardest but I have to remember that this is also where most of my injuries have occurred. So, moving forward the plan is this: I will stretch daily,
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CROSSWORD
ACROSS 1. Give as an example 5. Dugout shelter 9. Aromatic compound 14. By mouth 15. Fortune teller 16. Range 17. Paintbrush material 19. Scattered 20. Beginning 21. All there is 23. Sharpening stone 25. Piscary 28. Metric unit of area 29. Container 32. Stick 33. Picnic insect 34. Typewriter type 35. Backside 36. Desert plants 38. Similar 39. Cloak-like sleeveless
garment 40. Small songbird 41. Swerve wildly 43. East southeast 44. Mister 45. Wed again 46. Spinal curvature 48. Student of human nature 50. Pantywaist 54. Giver 55. Paving stone 57. Similar 58. French for "Head" 59. Distinctive flair 60. Doled 61. Flower stalk 62. Soaks (up) DOWN 1. Type of salmon 2. Metal used in steel 3. Seafarers
4. Not here 5. Fire residue 6. A very attractive woman 7. Harnesses 8. Annoyance 9. Ancient ascetic 10. Tally 11. Pulls 12. Type of sword 13. Scarlet 18. Aromatic solvent 22. Whirlpools 24. Construction 25. Madcap comedy 26. Notions 27. Contour 29. Motorcyclist 30. More aloof 31. Tot watcher 33. Play a role 34. Leeches 37. Transports by plane 42. Awry 44. Be afraid 45. Spin 46. Product of combustion 47. A small island 48. Puncture 49. Module 51. Alone 52. Break in two 53. Cravings 54. Dike 56. Jewel
KYC BOOK FAIR KEMPTVILLE HORTICULTURAL August 21-22-23, Ferguson Forest SOCIETY meetings are held monthly, Centre, Details at www.KYC.TEAM except July, August & December. The are held the 3rd Wednesday of the KEMPTVILLE YOUTH CENTRE is month at 7:00 pm at the Kemptville open Monday to Friday from 2pm to Pentecostal Church. 6pm daily for drop-in programming. NG PRIDE: 2SLGBTQAI+ Seniors and Ages 11 to 19. Jr. Youth Night 2nd allies meet 2 - 4pm the first and third Monday of the month from 6pm to Sunday of each month at the NG Library. 8pm. Ages 8 to 11. No pre-registration Join us for coffee, chat, cards and sherequired. All programming at KYC is nanigans. Looking to stay connected, FREE. Follow us on Facebook to view informed, and inspired in retirement? other scheduled events and programs. JOIN THE PROBUS CLUB OF NORTH KEMPTVILLE LEGION: Fridays 3-9. GRENVILLE a friendly group of retirFree Pool and Darts. Everyone Wel- ees who meet monthly for conversation, laughter, and thought-provoking presencome NG DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB Ma- tations. Gatherings take place the third sonic Lodge 311 Van Buren Kemptiv- Wednesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. lle, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church Hall. at 12:15. All Levels of bridge players For details, email n.g.probus97@gmail. are welcome. Info call 613-795-7155 com FRIENDSHIP LUNCHES are CAREGIVER COFFEE is a welcoming offered to everyone every Friday. monthly drop-in for caregivers to pause, Please join us in our lower hall by connect, and feel supported. Join us the 11:30 for a free meal, companionship last Tuesday of each month from 1–3 PM and fellowship at St. John's United at Beth Donovan Hospice. Free, casual, Church hall at 400 Prescott St. and and open to all caregivers. begin at 11:30. There is no charge. A JOIN NORTH GRENVILLE free will offering is appreciated. Every- TOASTMASTERS! Build confidence. Improve communication. Become a better leader. one is welcome. We meet the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each NG COMMUNITY MEALS ASSOCIATION Every Tuesday, 4-7 month at 7:00 p.m., in person at 215 Sanders PM Free or by Donation Dinner ( serv- Street, Suite 200, or via Zoom. Guests are ing dinner until 6:30 pm) Where: Pvt. always welcome. Come discover your voice! Blake Williamson Memorial Hall, (Old EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the MarlFire Hall) 25 Reuben Cres.Everyone borough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce is welcome. Bring clean indoor shoes Road. Tuesday, August 4, 18, September 1, FRIENDSHIP CAFÉ is open to the 15, 29. Registration starts at 6:00 p.m., play community Tuesday's from 10 to noon. starts at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome to stop by, enjoy a BID EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the hot beverage, a sweet treat and some Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 friendly conversation all at no cost. Pierce Road. Tuesday, July 28, August 11, 25, At St. John's United Church hall at 400 September 8, 22. Registration starts at 6:00 Prescott St. p.m., play starts at 6:30 p.m. TUESDAY COMMUNITY HUB SPEED EUCHRE 10X10 at Pierce's Corners hosted by the House of Lazarus All are (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at welcome to drop in. Advocacy, “make 3048 Pierce Road. Sunday, July 26, August 23 a meal, take a meal” cooking opportu- and September 20. Registration starts at 12:30 nities, community services assistance p.m., play starts at 1:00 p.m. 10x10 means you are just a few of the weekly programs. play 10 games with as many euchre hands Stop by and visit or contact House of as you can within 10 minutes per game, for Lazarus directly at 613-989-3830 for unlimited points. Stick the dealer: if everyone more details. Upstairs at St. John's passes, the dealer must call a trump suit. If you United Church at 400 Prescott St. like to take your time when playing euchre, this MODERN SQUARE DANCING in version is not recommended. Kemptville with the Grenville Gremlins WIZARD CARD GAME at Pierce's Corners Square Dance Club. Monday Evenings 7:00 - 9:30pm. North Grenville (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) Municipal Center County Road 44 For at 3048 Pierce Road. Sunday, August 9 and more info call Robert Taylor (613) 853- September 13. Aged 18 and over. Registration 5634, or email grenvillegremlins09@ starts at 12:30 p.m., play starts at 1:00 p.m.
Solutions to last week’s Sudoku
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August 6, 2026
gmail.com. NORTH GRENVILLE MEN’S SHED provides a safe and friendly environment for men to enjoy coffee and conversation, and do projects that benefit the community. We meet every Tuesday and Thursday morning, 8:30 to 10:30, at 2 Oxford St. West. Contact Peter Ivay (343-598-1174) : northgrenvillemensshed@gmail.com for more information. 10
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It's Only Words: Pt. 2.5
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by Peter Johnson, Upper Oxford Mills While wasting my time at my keyboard, I came across a short video taken from a BBC 4 television program. As we know, British humour can be a bit perplexing and then thought-provoking. What follows is a good example. If some of these don't make sense at first, try thinking in an English accent. Definitions you won't see in the Canadian version of the Oxford English Dictionary: 'Gladiator'...an unrepentant cannibal 'Balderdash'...a hairless sprinter 'Granary'...a residence for older women 'Gurgle'...a search engine designed specifically for plumbers 'Ethereal'...how a Yorkshire man greets his corn flakes 'Tranquilizer'...calm down Liza (that's a tricky one) 'Latin'...a french can 'Clique'...the sound made by a french camera 'Document'...when you called her a nurse but she's actually higher up on the pay scale 'Frigate'...a small military ship that no one cares about anymore 'Barbecue'...a lineup of men waiting for a hair cut 'Twerk'...where a Yorkshire man goes each morning of the week 'Acoustic'...a cattle prod used in the Hebrides 'Bigamist'...an Italian fog 'Fjord'...a car found in Oslo 'Fundamentalist'....public tax dollars going to Elon Musk 'Strumpet'...brass instrument for the present White House occupant 'Caterpillar'...when you can't decide if you want to get a pet or a cushion for the bed And then there's these, from other sources: 'Lottery'...a french otter farm 'Program'...in favour of the Metric System 'Coup de grace'...to cut the lawn in Vichy 'Toilet'...a small workplace 'Lobster'...someone who throws poorly 'Work'...where parents go to get tired 'Transcendental'...above your teeth 'Stalemate'...the leading cause of divorce 'Apiary'...a sting operation And finally: 'Politician'...one who shakes your hand before an election, and your confidence after.
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Baldwin's Birds
Common Sense Health
When standing up makes you sick
Blue Jay & Male Downy Woodpecker
Pairs of Birds
Our House Wren has finally wooed a young lady to join him in his nesting box, so there are sightings of both of them to be seen. They might not be seen together many times, but are both intent on whatever is inside one of my nesting boxes. At this time it might just be the nesting process still, but hopefully it will be the feeding time too. As the springtime progresses, the young birds are making their appearances and are beginning to learn from their parents and their siblings too. Our Robins have used the nesting shelf, on the rear of my garage, but have now vacated after having hatched and raised their chicks to be big enough to vacate and survive. They certainly don’t hang around in that respect, so we didn’t get any hint, or sightings, of their quick departure. We only hope that it was under normal circumstances, that they left and not the actions of a predator! It is a pleasure to see small groups of young birds gathered together for a short while until they get the independent urge and the territorial one, which splits them up and makes them more competitive for food. We have seen a family of Bluejays at the feeders and up in the trees and, at times, a pair of young ones moving about together. Whilst still young and not so competitive, different breeds can be seen feeding together, without chasing each other off. The other day, a Bluejay shared with a Downy Woodpecker, which is unusual in itself, because the Bluejays tend to scare everything off when they approach the feeders. Another rather nice thing to witness with the young birds is them teaching each other. A pair of Hairy Woodpeckers, I think they were juveniles, were on one of the feeders and the male (red spot on head) was taking food from the feeder and then reaching around, to the female on the other side, to feed her. This went on for quite some time and was interesting to watch. I have since verified the following from Audubon. It is only the parents that feed the young Hairy Woodpeckers; the young do not feed each other. Both the adult male and female share the work of feeding the nestlings and the newly fledged young. So I was wrong in my assumption, but I’m glad that I checked! Stay safe and well. Cheers, John Baldwin
Male Hairy Woodpecker about to feed female
Ron's
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August 6, 2026
The root cause of POTS lies in the body’s remarkable automatic control system – the autonomic nervous system – which manages heart rate, blood pressure, circulation, digestion, and temperature control. When we stand, gravity pulls blood toward our legs. A healthy nervous system immediately responds. Blood vessels tighten, the heart adjusts, and enough blood continues to reach the brain. In someone with POTS, that response does not work properly. The body struggles to maintain circulation when upright, and the heart often speeds up dramatically to compensate. The result can be dizziness, fatigue, weakness, exercise intolerance, difficulty concentrating, and a pounding heartbeat. Some sufferers feel better when they lie down, but not all. When the autonomic nervous system is out of whack, all bets are off. Historically, and to date, many patients have struggled to find an explanation. Because routine heart tests and blood work may appear normal, some are told their symptoms are due to stress or anxiety. During the
by Diana Gifford-Jones It was like opening a time capsule when I met up with my college roommate after 35 years. We laughed about our good times together and recalled all the confidence we had about our futures at age twenty. Then the conversation turned to our children, and she told me about her daughter's long struggle to obtain a diagnosis of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, or POTS. Once that diagnosis became clear, it is easy to point to a distinguishing symptom. For people with POTS, standing upright triggers a debilitating racing of the heart. But for the 2-3 million people in North America estimated to have the condition, figuring it out is no easy job. Experts are not sure why, but it’s a condition that tends to strike young women, aged 15-35, most often from comfortable, and white, families. This fits my roommate’s situation. It may be that POTS could be found in other segments of society, but neither patients nor doctors are making the connection.
American Civil War, physician Jacob Mendes Da Costa described soldiers who suffered from racing hearts, fatigue, chest discomfort, and poor exercise tolerance. The condition became known as “soldier’s heart.” Although it was not the same diagnosis as POTS, researchers believe these individuals may have had problems involving the autonomic nervous system. Over the decades, doctors continued to encounter patients who became ill when upright. But it was not until the 1990s that researchers formally described and named POTS. Scientists now understand that POTS is not one single disease. Different patients may have different underlying causes. In some, nerves that regulate blood vessels may not function properly. In others, there may be abnormalities involving the immune system, blood volume, or the body’s response to infection. The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented attention to POTS. Some people recovering from COVID developed persistent symptoms including rapid heart rate, dizziness, and
exercise intolerance. Researchers began investigating whether viral infections could trigger autonomic disorders in susceptible individuals. Although POTS is often associated with younger people, it can occur at any age. In older adults, symptoms may be mistaken for medication effects, dehydration, heart problems, or the normal challenges of aging. For my roommate and her daughter, and similar to many other families, it was a long and frustrating journey to the diagnosis of POTS. Ultimately, it took a team of specialists at the Mayo Clinic to design and initiate a four-week intensive program of physical, mental, and behavioural changes to daily routines that enabled them to return to normal life. With better knowledge about what’s going on, there comes an appreciation for the extraordinary things the human body does, even when just standing up. This column offers opinions on health and wellness, not personal medical advice. Visit www.docgiff.com to learn more. For comments, diana@docgiff.com.
Why the NG Community Dinner is so much more than just a meal by @Talia.Hreljac25
Within the past year, a very important community initiative was launched called "NG Community Meals." This idea grew out of the Community Forum, where leaders, organizations, and volunteers came together to find ways to make our community an even stronger and better place. One of the questions they asked was: how could they make a difference? The answer was simple. Feed families and give people an opportunity to connect with one another. What grew was something even more magical than anyone could have expected. It became a gathering place where people could feel connected to others. Where friendships have blossomed. Where people who needed a helping hand could come together and feel supported by their community. The beauty of this initiative is that everyone in the community is invited and welcomed. If you can support it with a donation, it is greatly appreciated, because it runs on donations and community support. If you can't leave anything, that's okay too. Just pay the kindness forward. And this is what I've seen every time I've gone. People who normally wouldn't con-
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nect with each other are sitting side by side, sharing a meal and finding something, big or small, to connect over. Families celebrating birthdays with balloons and decorations. People feeling like they belong. One of my favourite things is that there's a group of women who have become friends and lovingly call themselves the Dinner Divas. They eat together every week and even volunteered together at one of the meals to say thank you for creating a space that allows them to come together. And for families, what a huge help. It's a night where they know they can come and enjoy a warm meal. Where there's colouring, good food, and a tasty dessert. Where tired moms don't have to worry about making dinner for one night. Personally, one aspect I appreciate is that my kids get to see the beautiful things that can happen when volunteers step up to make a difference. Every week, I tell them, "These things only happen because people choose to make a difference." Which leads me to the volunteers. My gosh, what incredible things they're doing. The amount of work that goes into these dinners is amazing. They're often cooking on Sunday nights and preparing everything in advance. Then,
on Tuesday, they become a well-oiled machine, coming together to finish the last of the preparations before heading over to the Armoury in Riverside Park to serve the community. Afterwards, the cleanup team arrives to make sure all the dishes are washed and everything is ready for the following week. I volunteered for one week, and I was in absolute awe of what this mighty group of volunteers has accomplished. If you haven't attended a community dinner yet, I highly encourage you to do so. It's a wonderful way to experience the power of the North Gren-
ville community and the magic that happens when people come together, especially when a local musician shows up to entertain. They're also always looking for volunteers if you're looking for a meaningful way to get involved. For more information, please reach out to NGCMAssociation@gmail. com. The Community Dinner takes place every Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Private Blake Williamson Memorial Hall (Armoury), 25 Reuben Crescent. Come hungry, and be prepared to have your soul, as well as your tummy, fed.
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